nucleon number
Definition
- Noun:
- The total count of protons and neutrons in an atomic nucleus: The nucleon number is a fundamental property of an atomic nucleus, representing the sum of its protons and neutrons. It is also commonly called the mass number.
Usage
- The nucleon number is a key identifier for different isotopes of an element.
- It is typically written as a superscript preceding the element's symbol (e.g., ¹²C, where 12 is the nucleon number for carbon).
- The nucleon number, combined with the atomic number (number of protons), defines a specific nuclide.
Examples
- Noun:
- The nucleon number of the most common carbon atom is 12.
- Isotopes have the same atomic number but different nucleon numbers.
- Scientists determined the new element's nucleon number to be 294.
Advanced Usage
- "nucleon number" vs. "mass number": While often used synonymously, "mass number" is more common in general chemistry, whereas "nucleon number" emphasizes the count of nuclear particles (nucleons).
- In nuclear physics, the nucleon number is crucial for calculating nuclear binding energy and stability.
Variants and Related Words
- Mass Number (n): A synonymous term for nucleon number.
- Atomic Number (n): The number of protons in a nucleus, which defines the element.
- Nuclide (n): A species of atom characterized by its specific number of protons and neutrons (i.e., its atomic number and nucleon number).
Synonyms
- Mass number
Related Phrases
- Total nucleon count: A descriptive phrase equivalent to nucleon number.
Noun
-
the sum of the number of neutrons and protons in an atomic nucleus
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